NHS Highland warns of continued high levels of COVID in the community

10th March 2022

Continued high levels of COVID cases in the communities of the Highlands and Argyll and Bute mean that NHS Highland remains under pressure.

A number of outbreaks in hospitals, care homes and other locations relate directly to this increased community spread.

Dr Tim Allison, Director of Public Health for NHS Highland, said: "In our health and care settings we can ensure we use appropriate PPE, and take extra care with handwashing and distancing. But people are increasingly relaxed when out and about in their communities. Unfortunately this does mean COVID continues to spread.

"Thanks to vaccination, most cases are mild and indeed, we are seeing people admitted to hospital for other reasons who subsequently test positive. This change means we are managing some COVID-positive patients differently: looking after them in the area appropriate for their needs, which may not be Ward GC, the COVID ward in Raigmore Hospital.

"I urge everyone to remain vigilant: whether at work, leisure, or in a healthcare setting, and help us to reduce cases and keep people safe."

With many people isolating, we have fewer colleagues available to care for people. We have taken action to try and make as many staff as possible available, including asking qualified colleagues currently in non-clinical positions to temporarily move back to front-facing roles, and requesting help from partners. We have also asked non-clinical staff to help where they can in support roles. We would like to thank everyone who has come forward, but still need to do everything possible to reduce the pressure throughout the system.